Apparatus for supporting one or more myriad objects and method of using same

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for supporting an object includes a top lying on a bottom. Part of the top is attached to the bottom. The unattached part of the top includes a flexible joint such as one or more scored lines immediately next to the attached part of the top. The unattached part of the top is lifted from lying on the bottom to a selectively variable position having an angle of &gt;0° and &lt;180° with respect to the bottom. The bottom may have a stop on its end closest to the unattached part of the top. The object to be supported is placed on the bottom of the apparatus and leaned against the unattached top in its open position. The object is retained from sliding off the bottom by the stop. Thus, the object is supported. The apparatus may be credit card-sized, include a battery charger and/or a data storage device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to and benefit of the priorfiled co-pending and commonly owned provisional application, filed inthe United States Patent and Trademark Office on Dec. 20, 2013, assignedSer. No. 61/919,656, entitled An Apparatus for Supporting One or MoreMyriad Objects and Method of Using Same, and incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTIONS

The invention relates to apparatuses and methods that may support one ormore myriad devices, and more particularly only as an example, that maysupport a wireless device such as a mobile phone, phablet (combinationof a smartphone and a tablet), and tablets. The apparatuses and methodsof the invention may provide additional or alternative functionality.

BACKGROUND

Communications technology continues to evolve. Presently, a user maycarry a wireless device to communicate with others, to read a book ormagazine, to watch a video or movie that he or she has downloaded fromthe Internet, to watch live sporting or other events, to shop online,and/or to carry on other activities.

Conveniently, wireless devices are sized so consumers may take and usethem generally wherever they may go. For example, a mother may use herwireless device via video telephony to “attend” a parent-teacherconference with her child's teacher. As another example, an officeworker may catch a play-off game on his or her wireless device whilehaving lunch. Yet another example is that of a student who may read hisor her textbook on his or her wireless device.

Among the conveniences afforded by current wireless devices is that theymay be relatively small and light, and may be readily carried in hand,in a pocket or a purse, or in a case. Yet, this convenience may have itsdrawbacks. The mother who uses her wireless device to FaceTime™ with herchild's teacher, e.g., usually has to hold or prop up her wirelessdevice so the parties are “face-to-face.” The office worker who iswatching a play-off game on his or her wireless device while havinglunch also has to hold or prop up the device so he or she can see thegame and eat at the same time. The student reading his or her textbookon his or her device may have to hold or prop up his or her device whilereading and while taking notes or otherwise studying with the textbook.

Holding a wireless device while carrying activities such as the videoconference, watching the play off game and eating, and studying byreading and taking notes can be tiring and/or awkward. The mother's armmay grow tired of holding the wireless device so she is “face-to-face”with her child's teacher. The office worker may find it awkward to holdthe wireless device in one hand so he or she may see the play-off game,yet be able to eat his or her lunch in a socially acceptable manner. Astudent may hold his or her wireless device to read a textbook, but mayhave to lay the device down to take notes or face awkward positioning inholding the device and writing at the same time.

So as not to have to hold the wireless device, the user may prop itagainst an object. Propping the wireless device against an object isonly possible, however, when such an object is available and suitablefor the purpose. A worker having lunch may prop his or her deviceagainst his beverage cup, if he or she has such a cup, but it may not bethe right size or provide the right angle of propping, or may be ahazard to the device (such as by being wet). And every time the userdesires a sip of his or her beverage, inconveniently, he or she has toun-position the wireless device, hold it, take a drink, and thenre-position the device.

Rather than prop his or her device against an object to view the displayscreen of a wireless device, a user may use a stand specially designedfor propping the wireless device. As with simply propping, using a priorart stand has its disadvantages. A first disadvantage is that a wirelessdevice typically does not integrally include a stand to prop thewireless device for convenient viewing of the display screen. A usertypically has to acquire a stand to use as a prop as an accessory to thewireless device. In other words, a user may have to spend extra money topurchase a stand. If a stand is unavailable for purchase from the sameentity that sold the wireless device, the user may have to go to adifferent seller, which may be located in a locale different from theseller of the wireless device.

Moreover, in some cases, the user may have to buy a stand that isspecially designed to fit his or her wireless device rather than use a“generic” stand. Again, if the seller of the wireless device does nothave such a specially designed stand available for purchase, the usermay have to find somebody selling the specialized stand, which mayinclude a lot of shopping around.

Another problem with using prior art stands is that a user may forget tocarry along his or her stand with his or her wireless device. It may bedifficult to remember to bring the stand along with the wireless device,especially if the stand has been separated from the wireless device suchas for charging, etc.

A disadvantage to using prior art stands is that it may be difficult to“bring along” a stand for a wireless device when the stand is heavy,shaped strangely, and/or large sized. The office worker may find it easyto slip his or her wireless device into a shirt or slacks pocket whenleaving the office for lunch, but may find it difficult to fit a large,heavy stand in the same pocket with the wireless device. The stand mayhave to be carried separately, which may lead to problems such as losingthe stand, having something suitable to carry the stand, readily findingthe stand when the user desires to use the wireless device with thestand, and replacing the stand in its carrier when the user is finishedwith the wireless device.

Another disadvantage to prior art stands for use with a wireless deviceis that the stands may be complicated to use. A prior art stand may haveto be retrieved, unfolded, or undone, and its parts may have to beconfigured by the user to display the wireless device in an acceptablefashion. The configuration of the prior art stand may take the user sometime if such configuration is complicated. The office worker may misspart of his or her play-off game or at least use up part of his or herlunch hour figuring out the configuration of the stand rather thanenjoying a break from his or her labors by watching the play-off game.

Accordingly, there is a need by at least some users of wireless devicesfor an apparatus and/or a method that is more convenient than the priorart to relieve the users of having to hold their respective wirelessdevices when they are viewing the display screens thereof.

SUMMARY

Stated generally, the invention relates to an apparatus for supportingand/or displaying one or more myriad objects and a method of using same.The invention may be embodied as a credit card-sized apparatus that maybe conveniently carried in its closed position in a credit card slot ofa wallet or purse or other small space. The invention also may beembodied as smaller or larger than credit card-sized.

More particularly, the invention may include an apparatus having a coveras part of its top that lifts partially away from its bottom. An objectmay be supported/displayed between the lifted cover and bottom. Thesupported/displayed object may be anything that may besupported/displayed in such a manner by the apparatus. Particularly, theapparatus may be used to support/display a wireless device such as amobile or smartphone, eBook reader, phablet (combination of mobile phoneand tablet computer), tablet or table computer, and/or the like.

Advantageously, embodiments of the invention allow a user to watch videoon a smartphone, read an eBook, or peruse a tablet computer withouthaving to hold the object in his or her hands. The user's hands are freeto be used to eat, to write, to knit, and/or to carry on any otheraction. Further, the user may set up an embodiment of the invention sothe user may engage in video conferencing and/or video telephony such asFaceTime™ without having to hold the player in his or her hands. Use ofthe invention optimally leaves a user's hands free to take notes, makehand gestures, etc.

Another advantage of the invention is that some of the embodiments suchas the credit card-sized embodiment may be easily carried by the userwith the wireless device in a pocket, purse, or carrier, and may even becarried in a credit card slot of the user's wallet.

The invention also offers the advantage of easy set-up so that ahands-free support/display of wireless device such as an iPhone, iPad,or Kindle may be quickly and effortlessly set up whenever theopportunity presents itself. Yet, the invention may be facilelydisassembled by a simple action on the part of the user. Once closed,the invention becomes flat with little thickness so it may be readilystored and carried by the user in a small space, ready to be used.

Embodiments of the invention may be combined work with other devices.For example, an embodiment may be combined with or made as part of apasscard such as employees carry or wear on a lanyard, or that aconvention goer may wear to gain admission to events at a convention. Anembodiment of the invention may be combined with or made as part of acredit card, or other card such as a debit card, membership card, or thelike. Other embodiments of the invention may include convenient featuressuch as a memory storage unit such as a flash drive, or a battery orbattery charge for electronic devices.

Embodiments of the invention may bear information, advertising,decoration, and/or the like. An embodiment may have elements ofdifferent colors, textures, etc. In an embodiment, a user may mark onthe top and/or bottom to personalize the device, decorate it, retaininformation, etc. The markings on the device may be erasable orremovable in some embodiments.

The description of the invention herein provides exemplary embodimentsof the invention. For example, as noted above, the invention may beembodied in a credit card-sized apparatus. This invention may, however,be embodied in many different forms and used in a variety of ways otherthan those mentioned above. Thus, this invention should not be construedas limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, theseembodiments are provided so that this disclosure is thorough andcomplete, and fully conveys the scope of the invention to those skilledin the art.

More particularly, an embodiment of the invention may be described as astand for a device. The stand has a generally rectangular bottom havingan upper side. The bottom is substantially flat except for a stopper ofa generally rectangular shape disposed along a shorter side of the upperside of the bottom. The stopper has a length substantially the same asthe length of the shorter side of the bottom along which the stopper isdisposed. The stopper has a width less than its length. The stopper hasa thickness at least as thick as the combined thickness of the bottomand a top. The stopper and bottom may be integrally formed.

Also in the embodiment first mentioned in the paragraph above, a firstpiece of positioning material is disposed on at least a part of theupper side of the bottom of the stand between the stopper and a line onthe upper side of the bottom that is underneath and substantiallyparallel to a fold line on the top. The top of the stand also issubstantially rectangular and flat, sized substantially the same as theupper side of the bottom not covered by the stopper, and positioned ontop of the upper side of the bottom not covered by the stopper when in aclosed position for the top. The top has an upper side and an underside. In this device, the top and the bottom with the stopper may form asubstantially flat rectangle when the top is in its closed position,which may be the size of a credit card. Further with regard to thisembodiment, a second piece of positioning material is disposed at leaston a part of the under side of the top between the short side of the topadjacent to the stopper and a line on the under side of the topunderneath and substantially parallel to the fold line on the upper sideof the top. The first and second pieces of the positioning material maybe of the same material or different in whole or in part.

In the embodiment described in the previous two paragraphs, an underside of the top is connected to the upper side of the bottom between theshort side of the top opposite to its short side adjacent to the stopperand the line on the under side of the top underneath and substantiallyparallel to the fold line on the upper side of the top. The fold line isscored into the upper side of the top with the fold line being generallyparallel to and between the short sides of the top so that at least aportion of the unconnected part of the top is selectively moveable awayfrom its closed position atop the bottom to an open position, and sothat the portion of the unconnected part of the top bends along the foldline to expose at least a part of the second piece of positioningmaterial on the under side of the top when the top is in its openposition. Alternative embodiments may include one or more additionalfold lines in the top of that device that are generally spaced slightlyapart from the original fold line and parallel to it.

The exemplary device described in the previous three paragraphs may bepositioned between the bottom and the unconnected top in its openposition by having one part of the device placed on a portion of thefirst piece of positioning material on the upper side of the bottom, andby having another part of the device placed against a portion of thesecond piece of positioning material on the under side of theunconnected top in its open position.

Another embodiment of the invention may be described as an apparatus forsupporting an object. Besides supporting an object, the apparatus mayinclude a data storage device such as a universal serial bus (USB) flashdrive. Specifically, this apparatus includes a bottom having an upperside and a top lying on the upper side of the bottom when the apparatusis closed. The bottom may include a battery charger with a plug (and/orother element) for charging the object with energy if the object ischargeable.

Still referring to the apparatus first described in the previousparagraph, a first portion of the top is attached to the bottom with asecond portion of the top being adjacent to the first portion of the topand not attached to the bottom. The second portion of the top has aflexible joint immediately next to the first portion of the top so thatthe second portion of the top may be lifted from lying on the upper sideof the bottom to a selectively variable position having an angle of morethan 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees with respect to the bottom. Thebottom has a stop on its end closest to the second portion of the top.To use this apparatus, one part of the object may be placed on thebottom, but retained from sliding off the bottom by the stop, andanother part of the object may be placed against the second portion ofthe top when the second portion is in the position of having the angleof more than 0 degrees but less than 180 degrees with respect to thebottom.

In the apparatus described in the previous two paragraphs, the flexiblejoint may be a scored line in the second unconnected portion of the topon its upper side and near the first connected portion of the top. Otherembodiments may include one or more additional scored lines (or featuresthat achieve the same functionality as the scored line). The scored linemay allow the second unconnected portion of the top to bend near itsconnection to the first connected portion of the top. In anotherembodiment, the flexible joint may include a second scored line in thesecond unconnected portion of the top on its upper side with the secondscored line being adjacent and substantially parallel to the scoredline.

Yet another exemplary embodiment may be described more particularly as adevice for holding a wireless device in an upright position. The devicehas a base having a flap on top of the base with one part of the flapbeing connected to the base. The part of the flap unconnected to thebase is selectively moveable to an open position away from the base bythe unconnected part of the flap pivoting about the connected part ofthe flap so the unconnected part of the flap forms an angle of less than180 degrees and more than 0 degrees with respect to the base. Thisexemplary device includes at least one score line in the top of the flapnear and parallel to the connection of the flap to the base for creatinga bend in the flap near its connection to the base. Alternativeembodiments may include one or ore additional score lines or feature(s)that serve a similar function. This exemplary device may be used byplacing a part of the wireless device on the base and leaning anotherpart of the wireless device against the flap in its open position sothat the flap supports the wireless device in the upright position.

Other features and advantages of the inventions may be more clearlyunderstood and appreciated from a review of the following detaileddescription and by reference to the appended drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theinvention in use with a wireless device such as a mobile phone.

FIG. 2 is a back perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theinvention in use with a wireless device such as a tablet.

FIG. 3 is side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theinvention in a closed position.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of theinvention in an open position.

FIG. 5A is a photograph including a front side perspective view of anexemplary embodiment of the invention in use with a mobile device in itsvertical position.

FIG. 5B is a photograph including a front view of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention in use with a mobile device in itshorizontal position.

FIG. 6 is a front side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment ofthe invention in a closed position.

FIG. 7A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention in aclosed position.

FIG. 7B is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention in aclosed position.

FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary embodiment of the invention in use with abadge.

FIG. 9A depicts an exemplary embodiment of the invention in a closedposition with decoration.

FIG. 9B depicts the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 9A in a closedposition.

FIG. 10 depicts exemplary embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention is described herein with reference to exemplaryembodiments, alternative embodiments, and also with reference to theattached drawings. The invention, however, can be embodied in manydifferent forms and carried out in a variety of ways, and should not beconstrued as limited to the embodiments set forth in this descriptionand/or the drawings. The exemplary embodiments that are described andshown herein are only some of the ways to implement the inventions.Elements and/or actions of the inventions may be assembled, connected,configured, and/or taken in an order different in whole or in part fromthe descriptions herein.

The invention relates generally to an apparatus for supporting and/ordisplaying one or more myriad objects and a method of using same. Thetype, size, and weight of an object that may be supported by theinvention may depend generally on the size and strength or support powerof the particular embodiment of the invention being used. Examples orembodiments of the invention are provided herein that are creditcard-sized (about 3 inches by about 2 inches by about ⅛^(th) of aninch). The invention, however, is not to be limited to credit card-sizedembodiments. Moreover, the examples of the invention provided herein aregenerally rectangular in shape with rounded corners. Again, theinvention is not to be limited to a rectangular shape with roundedcorners. Further, examples of the invention are provided herein that aremade of one or more materials including, for example, rigid polyvinylchloride (rigid PVC or RPVC), flexible polyvinyl chloride (flexiblePVC), silicon rubber, polyester (PES), polyethylene terephthalate (PET),polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinylidenechloride (PVDC) (Saran), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene(PP), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyamides (PA)(Nylons), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS),polyethylene/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PE/ABS), polycarbonate(PC), polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS),polyurethanes (PU), thermoplastic, steel, aluminum, stainless steel,other plastic or polymer materials, other metallic materials, compositematerials, epoxy, resin, wood, or other similar materials. In someembodiments, the invention may be extruded using multiple materials toform multiple layers.

An embodiment of the invention may be referred to herein as a “stand”,an “apparatus,” a “device,” a “display card,” a “dock,” a “holder,” a“rest,” a “station,” a “support,” and/or a “tray.”

Objects that may be displayed/supported by exemplary embodiments of theinvention include objects that are generally flat and mostlytwo-dimensional having a relatively small thickness with respect toother dimensions, such as, inter alia, Android phones, art, articles,authorizations, awards, baseball cards, book, cameras, cards, cases,cell phones, ceramics, certificates, coasters, clam shell packaging,compact disks, digital cameras, digital display devices, digital videodisk, digital photograph displays, diplomas, disks, displays, displaycases, electronic slide show displays, electronic book readers, frames,global positioning system (GPS) devices, greeting cards, iPads, iPhones,iPods, instructions, jewel cases, licenses, magazines, memorabilia,mobile phones, Kindles, mirrors, name plates, navigation units,newspapers, Nokia phones, Nooks, optical disks, packaging, pagers,personal digital assistants, phablets, photographs, pictures, pictureframes, portable media (MP) players, postcards, recipes, registrations,sales packaging, Samsung phones, smart phones, stained glass,superphones, tablets, tablet computers, tablet readers, tiles, videocameras, vinyl record albums, wireless units, and works of art such asprints, tiles. Such objects also may be referred to herein as devices orsimilar terms.

FIG. 1

FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of a stand 10 according to theinvention. The stand 10 is shown as supporting a wireless device 12 (inshadow) such as a mobile phone. When the stand 10 is configured tosupport an object such as the mobile phone 12 and shown in FIG. 1, thestand 10 is referred to as being in an open position. When elements ofthe stand 10 lie flat against each other, such as when not supporting anobject, the stand is referred to as being in its closed position. Whenthe exemplary stand 10 is closed, it resembles a credit card in size andshape in being substantially flat and thin, and having a substantiallyrectangular shape with rounded corners. FIG. 3 shows an embodiment 80 ofthe invention in a closed position.

For ease in description herein, the long sides of the exemplaryrectangular stand 10 define its length, and the short sides define itswidth. The same nomenclature is used herein for other rectangularobjects.

The exemplary stand 10 of FIG. 1 is made up of two elements of the samegeneral size and shape and thickness: a bottom 14 and a top 16. When thestand 10 is in its closed position, the under side of the top 16 covers,is adjacent to, and in contact with the upper side of the bottom 14 ofthe stand 10. Even though the exemplary stand 10 is referred to ashaving two elements 14, 16, these elements may be integrally made.

In the exemplary stand 10, the bottom 14 and the top 16 are made of thesame materials. For example, the bottom 14 and the top 16 may each beextruded having one or more layers. In some embodiments, the bottom 14and the top 16 each have one or more layers of rigid PVC and/or one ormore layers of flexible PVC. Many other different materials may be usedalone or in combination, such as silicone rubber. In some embodiments,the bottom 14 and the top 16 may include a layer of rigid PVC to providestructural integrity and a second layer of flexible PVC to provide ahigh friction exterior surface.

As noted, the exemplary stand 10 is of a credit card size. The stand 10may be made (in whole or in part) of the same material as a credit card.Credit cards are made of polyvinyl chloride acetate (PVCA). Otherembodiments of the invention may be made to be the same size as and evento function as pass cards such as security pass cards, swipe pass cards,insert reader pass cards, or proximity reader pass cards. In thosecases, the exemplary embodiments may be made (in whole or in part) ofthe same material as the pass cards.

As another example, the exemplary stand 10 may be made of or covered bymaterial that may be written upon by the user, erasable or not. Forexample, a user may write his/her name on the stand 10 to identify itsownership.

The top 16 of the exemplary stand 10 has two parts 18, 20 as shown inFIG. 1: a support part 18, and an attached part 20. As the term implies,the support part 18 of the top 16 supports an item or object beingdisplayed when the stand 10 is used for display purposes. Also as theterm implies, the attached part 20 of the top 16 is attached to thebottom 14 of the stand 10. The attached part 20 of the top 16 remainsattached to the bottom 14 of the stand 10 whether the stand 10 is in anopen or closed position.

The two parts 18, 20 of the top 16 are separated by a hinge 22. In theembodiment of FIG. 1, the hinge 22 is a line of weakness or enhancedflexibility (also referred to as a scored line or score) in the materialof the top of the top 16. The hinge 22 or the hinge 22 and thesurrounding area may be made using a material configured to flex andresist fatigue loads. For example, the hinge 22 (and/or the areasurrounding the hinge 22) may be made from flexible PVC. The line ofweakness 22 runs generally in parallel to the short sides of thesubstantially rectangular top 16. In other words, the hinge 22 runsparallel to the width of the exemplary stand 10. The hinge 22 ispositioned in this embodiment about ⅖ths of the way along andperpendicular to the length of the stand 10. By having such a position,the hinge 22 defines the support part 18 of the top 16 to be smallerthan the attached part 20 of the top 16. In this embodiment, the supportpart 18 of the top 16 is about 40% of the top. Particularly, the supportpart 18 of the top 16 is shorter in length than the attached part 20 ofthe top 16. The support part 18 and the attached part 20 have the samewidth. Other embodiments may vary.

The hinge 22 in the top 16 allows the support part 18 to move from aclosed position through variable open positions to the fullest openposition of the stand 10. The closed position of the support part 18, asnoted above, is parallel to and lying on top of the bottom 14 of thestand 10. To move the stand 10 into an open or supportive position, auser may pull the support part 18 of the top 16 away from the bottom 14of the stand 10. The user may pull the support part 18 in any mannerthat accomplishes the lifting of the support part 18 of the top 16 awayfrom the bottom 14. For example, the user may grasp the support part 18on either of its short sides 26 a, 26 b and pull up. As another example,the user may use his/her thumb to pull the unattached long side 28 ofthe support part 18 of the top 16 away from the bottom 14.

When the user pulls the support part 18 away from the bottom 14, thesupport part 18 pivots on or about the hinge 22. As the user continuesto pull on the support part 18, it continues to move away from thebottom 14 in an arc.

More particularly, the inside angle 24 between the bottom part 14 andthe support part 18 at the hinge 22 may be used to define the variableopen positions of the stand 10. To open the stand, the support part 18of the top 16 is moved from its closed position having 0 degrees withrespect to the bottom 14 to a position having a greater than 0 degreeangle. The support part 18 pivots on the hinge 22 so that the supportpart 18 moves through positions of greater sized angle with respect tothe bottom 14 as the open positions of the stand 10 more fully open. Thefullest open position of the stand 10 is achieved when the support part18 is positioned at its largest angle 24 with respect to bottom 14 ofthe stand 10. The fullest open position of the stand may be defined bythe amount the hinge 22 allows the support part 18 to move away from thebottom 14 of the stand 10. As noted, the angle 24 is the inside anglebetween the support part 18 and the bottom 14 at the hinge 22.

FIG. 1 shows the exemplary stand 10 in an open position of about 90degrees between the support part 18 and the bottom 14 of the stand 10.In other words, the support part 18 of the top 16 is generallyperpendicular to the bottom 14 of the exemplary stand 10 in thisillustration. Other embodiments may vary.

When the support part 18 is lifted away from the bottom 14 of the stand10, part 30 of the bottom 14 is revealed. In this embodiment 10, therevealed bottom part 30 is about the same size and shape as the supportpart 18 of the top 16.

As noted, FIG. 1 shows the exemplary stand 10 supporting the wirelessdevice 12 (shown in shadow). Particularly, the wireless device 12 ispositioned so it leans between the revealed bottom part 30 of the stand10 and the support part 18 of the top 16 of the stand 10.

More particularly, the wireless device 12 is generally rectangular inshape. If orientation of the wireless device 12 is important (such asfor reading a novel or watching a movie), two of the sides of thewireless device 12 are referred to herein as a top opposite a bottomwith the other two sides disposed between the top and bottom. The longsides of the wireless device 12 may be the top and bottom respectively,if the wireless device 12 is being viewed in a landscape mode such asshown in FIG. 1. The short sides of the tablet computer 12 may be thetop and bottom respectively, if the wireless device 12 is being viewedin portrait mode such as in FIG. 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, a user may use the stand 10 to support a wirelessdevice 12 in portrait mode to read or watch a movie or other activity.To do so, the user lifts the support part 18 of the top 16 of theexemplary stand 10 away from the bottom 14 of the stand 10 to reveal thebottom part 30 of the stand 10. While holding the support part 18 of thestand 10, the user may position part of the bottom of the wirelessdevice 12 on the revealed bottom part 30 of the stand 10. In thisexample, the bottom of the wireless device 12 is centered on therevealed bottom part 30 of the stand 10, but it does not have to be.Other configurations are possible. Also in this example, the bottom ofthe wireless device 12 is placed relatively close to the outside width(parallel to the hinge 22) of the revealed bottom part 30 of the stand10. Other configurations may vary such as, for example, if the userdesired the wireless device 12 have a more vertical position withrespect to the stand 10.

Continued positioning of the wireless device 12 on the exemplary stand10 is now described. After positioning the bottom of the wireless device12 on the revealed bottom part 30 of the stand 10, the user may positionthe top of the wireless device 12 with respect to the supporting part 18of the top 16 of the stand 10. To do so, the user continues to hold thesupport part 18 of the top 16 of the stand 10 away from the bottom 14 ofthe stand 10. Meanwhile, the user allows the top of the wireless device12 to move in an arc towards the support part 18 of the top 16 of thestand 10. In effect, the top of the tablet computer 12 pivots about thebottom of the tablet computer 12 towards the support part 18 of the top16 of the stand 10. When the top of the wireless device 12 meets thesupport part 18 of the stand 10, the user may release both the supportpart 18 of the stand 10 and the wireless device 12. The wireless device12 leans against and is supported by the support part 18 of the top 16of the stand 10. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, that partof the wireless device 12 leaning between the revealed bottom part 30 ofthe stand 10 and the support part 10 comprises the hypotenuse of a righttriangle formed by the elements 12, 18, 30. As noted, in FIG. 1, theangle between the revealed bottom part 30 and the support part 18 of thetop 16 is about 90 degrees.

FIG. 1 also shows that the wireless device 12 is positioned with respectto the exemplary stand 10 so that the support part 18 of the stand 10touches slightly above the center back of the wireless device 12. Otherconfigurations may vary depending on a variety of factors including,inter alia, the angle between the support part 18 of the stand 10 andthe bottom 14 of the stand 10, the weight, size, shape, and othercharacteristics of the object displayed/supported, the position of thebottom of the object displayed/supported with respect to the revealedbottom 30 of the stand 10.

To remove the wireless device 12 from the exemplary stand 10, the usermay simply reverse the process of positioning the wireless device 12 onthe stand 10. The user may move the top of the wireless device 12 awayfrom the stand 10 so that the wireless device 12 disengages from thesupport part 18 of the top 16 of the stand 10. The user then may liftthe wireless device 12 off of the revealed bottom part 30 of the stand10. As a result, the support part 18 of the top 16 of the stand 10 mayreturn to its closed position atop the revealed bottom part 30 of thestand 10. Other ways of removing the wireless device 12 are possiblewith this embodiment. Other embodiments may vary in removable of anobject from an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2

FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment 40 of the invention. Exemplarystand 40 is illustrated as supporting a tablet computer 42 in landscapemode (shown in shadow). Like exemplary stand 10 described in connectionwith FIG. 1, exemplary stand 40 is generally rectangular with roundedcorners, and is made up of two elements of the same general size andshape and thickness: a bottom 44 and a top 46. Again, these elements donot have to be separate, but may be made integrally. When the stand 40is in its closed position, the top 46 covers the bottom 44 of the stand40.

The top 46 of the exemplary stand 40 has two parts 48, 50 as shown inFIG. 2: a support part 48, and an attached part 50. The two parts 48, 50of the top 46 are separated by a hinge 52 defined by a line of weakness(or increased flexibility) 51 in the material of the top 46.

FIG. 2 shows the exemplary stand 40 in an open position of about 90degrees between the support part 48 and the bottom 44 of the stand 40.When the support part 48 is lifted away from the bottom 44 of the stand40, part 60 of the bottom 44 is revealed. In this embodiment 40, therevealed bottom part 60 is about the same size and shape as the supportpart 48 of the top 46.

FIGS. 3 and 4

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate another embodiment 80 of the invention.Exemplary stand 80 is shown in FIG. 3 in its closed position and in FIG.4 in its most open position. Like the previous two embodiments,exemplary stand 80 is credit card-sized, and rectangular in shape withrounded corners. Thus, stand 80 is easily stored in a slot in a walletor purse, when the stand 80 is not in use. Of course, other embodimentsmay vary in size, shape, configuration, etc.

Exemplary stand 80 differs from the previous embodiments in having moreparts or elements. Like the previous embodiments, stand 80 has a bottom84, and a top 85 that are about the same size, shape, and thickness.Unlike the previous embodiments, however, the top 85 of stand 80includes a top element 86 and a stop 87. Stop 87 also may be referred toas a “edge,” “ledge,” “stopper,” or “tab.”

In particular, stop 87 is positioned near the “display end” of the stand80. The “display end” as used herein is the short side of the stand 80upon which the displayed object rests closest to the surface supportingthe stand 80. The stop 87 is as wide as the short side (or width) of thetop 85, but the stop 87 is only about 10% as long as the long side (orlength) of the top 85. The top element 86 makes up the remaining 90% ofthe area of the top 85. As is explained below in connection with FIG. 4,the stop 87 is a separate piece from the top element 86 in thisembodiment 80. Other embodiments may vary. For example, the bottom, topand stop in an embodiment may be integrally made.

The top element 86 includes a support portion 90, a flexible joint 92,and an attached portion 94. In the exemplary stand 80, the top element86 is integrally formed (as in being a single piece) to include thesupport portion 90, the flexible joint 92, and the attached portion 94.

The support portion 90 is the part of the top element 86 that is closestto the display end of the top 85 by the support portion 90 beingdisposed adjacent to the stop 87 when the stand 80 is closed.Advantageously, the stop 87 and support portion 90 may engage in a snapfit or friction fit so the support portion 90 remains adjacent thebottom 84 (“closed”) unless the support portion 90 is removed from itssnap fit or friction fit with the stop 87.

The support portion 90 is as wide as the top 86 (and the stop 87), butthe support portion 90 is only about 45% as long as the top element 86.As the term implies, the support portion 90 of the top 85 supports anitem or object being displayed when the stand 80 is used for displaypurposes as is more particularly discussed in connection with FIG. 4below. The support portion 90 is positioned above the bottom 84 of thestand 80 when the stand 80 is closed. When the stand 80 is open, thesupport portion 90 is moved away from the bottom 84 as is describedfurther below. In other words, the support portion 90 is not fixedlyattached to the bottom 84.

Next to the support portion 90 of the top element 86 is the flexiblejoint 92. It is as wide as the top element 86 (and stop 87 and supportportion 90), but is only about 22% as long as the top element 86. Likethe support portion 90 of the top element 86, the flexible joint 92 isnot attached to the bottom 84 of the stand 80.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the flexible joint 92 is an area with fourevenly spaced scored lines 93 a-d in the material of the top 85. Thescored lines 93 a-d run generally parallel to each other and to theshort sides of the substantially rectangular top 85. The four scoredlines 93 a-d define three areas 95 a-c of the flexible joint 92. Eacharea is the width of the top element 86, but each is only about 7% ofthe length of the top element 86.

Each scored line 93 a-d allows the top element 86 to be bent a bit nearthe scored line. The scored lines 93 a-d allow the support portion 90 tomove from a closed position through variable open positions to thefullest open position of the stand 80. The closed position of thesupport portion 90, as noted above, is parallel to and lying on top ofthe bottom 84 of the stand 80. To move the stand 80 into an open orsupportive position, a user may pull the support portion 90 of the topelement 86 away from the bottom 84 of the stand 80. The user may pullthe support portion 90 in any manner that accomplishes the lifting ofthe support portion 90 of the top element 86 away from the bottom 84 ofthe stand 80. As the user continues to pull the support portion 90 awayfrom the bottom 84 of the stand 80, each scored line 93 a-d begins tobend a bit starting with the scored line 93 a closest to the supportportion 90. In moving the stand 80 to an open position, the user maypull part or the entire flexible joint 92 away from the bottom 84 of thestand 80 in addition to the support portion 90 of the top element 86.The cumulative effect of the four scored lines 93 a-d is to allow amaximum open position of about 80 degrees (inside angle) between theattached portion 94 and the support portion 90 of the top element 86 ofthe stand 80. Other embodiments may vary. Advantageously, the anglebetween the support portion 90 and attached portion 94 of the exemplarystand 80 may be made to vary to accommodate different objects, differentviewing angles, different orientations of the object, etc.

Still referring to stand 80, next to the flexible joint 92 of the topelement 86 is the attached portion 94. It is as wide as the top element86 (and stop 87, support portion 90, and flexible joint 92) but is onlyabout 33% as long as the top element 86. As the term implies, theattached portion 94 of the top element 86 is attached to the bottom 84of the stand 80. The attached portion 94 of the top element 86 remainsattached to the bottom 84 of the exemplary stand 80 whether the stand 80is in an open or closed position.

As noted above, the exemplary stand 80 differs from the previousembodiments 10, 40 at least by having more elements. In addition tothose already presented in the immediately preceding paragraphs, theexemplary stand 80 includes two layers of liners 88, 89. The liner 88lies on top of and is attached to that part of the inside of the bottom84 that is not covered by the stop 87. The other liner 89 liesunderneath the top element 86 and is attached to it. Thus, the liners88, 89 are about the same in size and shape. In addition, the liners 88,89 are about the same in thickness being relatively thin. Each of theliners 88, 89 may be one piece, or may be separate pieces put together.

Advantageously, the liners 88, 89 are slightly “tacky” and/or havenon-slip characteristics. The tackiness and/or non-slick characteristicsof the liners 88, 89 may allow for a better grip of the objectsupported/displayed by the stand 80. Yet, the liners 88, 89 are not sotacky as to interfere with lifting the support portion 90 from thebottom 84 of the stand 80. The tackiness of the liners 88, 89 may betterallow for the stand 80 to remain closed when not in use.

Another advantage of the liners 88, 89 is that one or both of them maybe decorated. For example, one or both of the liners 88, 89 may be adifferent color(s) from the remaining elements of the stand, and/or eachother. The decoration may be something other than color such as texture,graphics, photographs, symbols, representations, etc. The decoration mayinclude advertising, trademarks, logos, etc. The decoration also may be“more” than ornamentation in conveying information such as use of thestand 80, safety information, thought of the day, praise words, poems,quotes, etc. In an embodiment of the invention, one or both liners 88,89 may be made of a material upon which a user may make marks that areerasable or not. For example, a user may inadvisably write his/herpassword on the liners 88, 89.

The exemplary stand 80 is shown in FIG. 4 in its most fully openposition. In that position, the support portion 90 of the top element 86is pulled away from the bottom 84 of the stand 80. When the supportportion 90 is pulled away from the bottom 84, the flexible portion 92allows the support portion 90 to pivot and move in an arc away from thebottom 84. As show in FIG. 4, that part of the flexible portion 92closest to the support portion 90 of the top element 86 may move awayfrom the bottom 84 as well. In the most fully open position of stand 80shown in FIG. 4, the inside angle defined between the support portion 90and the attached portion 94 is about 80 degrees.

The open position of the stand 80 shown in FIG. 4 allows a view of theliners 88, 89. As noted, liner 88 is disposed upon and attached to theinside top of the bottom 84 of the stand 80. Liner 89 is attached to theinside bottom of the top element 86.

FIG. 4 also shows the relationship between the bottom 84 of the stand 80and the stop 87. As noted above, the stop 87 is disposed on the “displayend” of the stand 80 atop the bottom 84. In the exemplary stand 80, thestop 87 and the bottom 84 are integrally formed (of one piece) of thesame material.

When the stand 80 is in use, the stop 87 earns its name. A user may openthe stand 80 by pulling the support portion 90 away from the bottom 84,and then position the object to be displayed/supported on the back liner88, but inside of the stop 87. In other words, the stop 87 serves as aledge or a lip upon which a bottom edge or point of an object may restin whole or in part. By allowing the object a place to rest, the stop 87aids in supporting the object on the stand 80. The stop 87 “stops” theobject from sliding off the bottom 84 of the stand 80.

FIGS. 5A and 5B

FIGS. 5A and 5B are photographs showing an exemplary stand 100supporting a wireless device 102. FIG. 5A is a photograph showing a sidefront perspective view of the exemplary stand 100 in an open positionsupporting the wireless device 102 in a portrait mode position. FIG. 5Bis a photograph showing a front view of the exemplary stand 100 in anopen position supporting the wireless device 102 in a landscape modeposition.

FIG. 5A shows the bottom side of the wireless device 102 placed on thebottom 104 of the stand 100 while the remainder of the wireless device102 leans backwards away from its bottom side. The wireless device 102is supported by the top 106 of the stand 100 in one of its openpositions. The top 106 of the stand 100 includes a support portion 108,a flexible joint 110, and an attached portion 112.

Exemplary stand 100 does not include a stop such as stop 87 describedabove in association with embodiment 80 and FIGS. 3 and 4. In bothexamples shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the bottom of the wireless device 102is positioned a bit back from the edge of the bottom 104 thatcorresponds to the “display end” of the stand 100. This is the edge ofthe bottom 104 that does not have the top attached to it. Thus, there isa small area 114 of the bottom 104 visible in front of the bottom of thewireless device 102.

In the embodiment 100 shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the bottom 104 of thestand 100 not attached to the top 106 has a liner 114 such as describedabove disposed on it. The wireless unit 102 may be better held in placein display position with the use of the liner 114 with the stand 100.

FIG. 6

FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment 120 of the invention. The stand120 is shown in its closed position. Embodiment 120 is similar toembodiment 80 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 with a couple of exceptions. Likeembodiment 80, the stand 120 includes a stopper 122 disposed on thebottom 124 of the stand 120. The stopper 122 in stand 120, however, isdifferently configured from the stopper 87 of stand 80. The stopper 122looks like a “canal” rather than a rectangular box. The stopper 122 hasa cross section that is “U” shaped. The canal or U shaped stopper 122may provide advantages such as reducing the material used in the stand120 thereby reducing costs of manufacture as well as the overall weightof the stand 120. The canal or U shaped stopper 122 may in someembodiments be used to hold a stylus (and/or other item) for use withthe wireless device and/or other object supported by the stand 120. Insome embodiments, the stopper 122 include an upstanding lip (see alsoFIG. 7B).

Another way in which the exemplary stand 120 differs from thosepreviously described is that stand 120 includes a battery charger 126.In this embodiment, the battery charger 126 is an additional element tothe stand 120. The battery charger 126 may be (releasably or not) fixedto the under side of the bottom of the stand 120. The battery charger126 is about the same size in length and width as the bottom of thestand 120. The battery charger 126 is thin and light weight. Otherembodiments may vary. For example, a commercially available batterycharger may be used with a stand according to the invention. Such acommercially available battery charger may be the Power Card™ sold byTriple C, 47 W. 14^(th) Street, 4^(th) floor, New York, N.Y. 10011.Comparable battery chargers may be used in other embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 6 does not show the plugs and/or other connectors that may be usedto connect the battery charger 126 to the displayed object. In someembodiments such plugs and/or connectors may be unnecessary. Forexample, an exemplary stand according to the invention may be used witha battery charger that is wireless such as those that work on theprinciple of magnetic resonance. An example of a wireless chargingdevice is the Proxi-2D Resonant Charging Pad available fromPowerbyProxi, Ltd., Level 4, 43 College Hill, Freemans Bay, Auckland1011, New Zealand.

In other embodiments, a battery charger may be included as part of thebottom (and/or other element) of the stand. In other words, the batterycharger in these other embodiments may be inside the bottoms of theother stands (and/or other elements of the stands).

As used herein, the term “battery charger” is used because it ispresumed that an object to be supported by an exemplary stand may haveits own battery. On the other hand, an exemplary stand according to theinvention may be provided with a battery for the object to be supportedand/or an additional or back up battery for a battery associated withthe object to be supported.

FIGS. 7A and 7B

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic drawings of cross sections of the top 121and the bottom 124 of the exemplary stand 120 first discussed inconnection with FIG. 6, but without the battery charger 126.

FIG. 7A shows the length of the top 121 to be 2.933 inches. Thethickness of the top 121 is .055 inches. The top 121 includes a liner128 of 1.916 inches disposed on that part of the under side of the top121 that is not connected to the bottom. Other embodiments may have aliner 131 that runs the length and width of the top. The top 121 alsoinclude four score marks 130 a, 130 b, 130 c, and 130 d. These marks areeach .080 inches wide. They are spaced apart from each other by a bitlonger distance than the .080 inches of their width. The marks 130 a,130 b, 130 c, and 130 d are disposed in this embodiment about the middleof the top 121 of the stand 120.

FIG. 7B shows the length of the bottom 122 to be 3.350 inches includingthe stopper 124 and 3.000 inches without the stopper 124. The thicknessof the bottom 122 is the same as the top 121 at .055 inches. The heightof the walls of the stopper 124 is .150 inches. The bottom of the “U” inthe canal shaped stopper 122 has a thickness that is the same as thethickness of the bottom without the canal or .055 inches. The bottom 124includes a liner 132 that is positioned on top of the bottom 124 on thatpart of the bottom 124 that is not connected to the top 121.

Exemplary Pass Card Embodiment—FIG. 8

The embodiments of the invention described above may be used generallyas stand-alone devices whose function is singular indisplaying/supporting objects as described above (except for theembodiments described as used with a battery and/or battery charger).Alternate embodiments of the invention, however, may have one or moreadditional functions than just that of displaying/supporting objects.

FIG. 8 provides three views of apparatus 140 in an embodiment of theinvention that includes the functionality of a stand according to theinvention used with or as a pass card. The term “pass card” is usedherein to also cover other types of cards or badges that may be combinedwith the stand functionality of the invention, including, but notlimited to access control cards, employment identification badges, data,cards, security pass cards, and the like. Such pass cards may providedata about the person using the pass card or not.

A pass card often includes an opening on one end so the pass card may beworn on a lanyard or otherwise conveniently worn or carried by a user.In the exemplary apparatus 140, an opening 142 has been provided nearone end of the apparatus 140. The opening 142 has been provided ascentered close to the end opposite to the end where the apparatus 140may be opened to serve as a stand for an object. The opening 142 isoblong or a flattened oval with the long axis of the opening 142generally parallel to the end of the apparatus 140. All (or select) ofthese characteristics of the opening 142 may be made to vary in otherembodiments. Moreover, an alternate embodiment may include no opening,or more than one opening.

FIG. 8 includes embodiments that show the top 144, and bottom 146 of theapparatus 140. The top 144 is marked with the name of the business orevent to which the pass card 140 relates. The back 146 of the apparatus140 is marked with information relating to the user of the apparatus140. The top 144 and bottom 146, in other embodiments, may be otherwisedecorated or have other or additional information provided on them.Alternatively, a user may add the information on the top 144 and/orbottom 146, and such added information may be erasable, removable, ornot.

FIG. 8 also shows a comparison between a conventional pass card 148 andthe apparatus 140. Both are shown in a substantially horizontal positionthat allows the viewer to compare the relative thicknesses of therespective devices 140, 148. Apparatus 140 is only slightly thicker thanconventional pass card 148. Apparatus 140 may be made (in whole or part)of the same material(s) as is (are) conventionally used in making passcards.

Advantageously, a user of the apparatus 140 has a device, whichfunctions more than just as a conventional pass card 148. The apparatus140 may be used to support/display objects in such a way as to allow theuser to operate hands-free.

Exemplary Credit Card Embodiment—FIGS. 9A and 9B

FIGS. 9A and 9B respectively provide two views of an apparatus 150 in anembodiment 150 of the invention that includes the functionality of acredit card. The term “credit card” is used herein to also cover othertypes of devices that may be combined with the stand functionality ofthe invention, including, but not limited to debit cards, cash cards,health savings account cards, or the like. The apparatus 150 may be madeof the same material as a credit card.

FIG. 9A shows the embodiment 150 showing its “under side” or bottom 154,which functions as a conventional back of a credit card. It includes amagnetic strip 156 (also “stripe”) such as may be present on the back ofa conventional credit card. The magnetic strip 156 may be made out of ablend of plastic film and tiny magnetized metallic particles. They allowdata to be stored and changed right on a credit card. Typically, thereare three information tracks on the magnetic strip. The otherinformation generally included on the back of a conventional credit cardis not shown in FIGS. 9A. Such other information may, however, beincluded in an embodiment such as apparatus 150.

FIG. 9B illustrates the embodiment 150 in an open position as it may beused to support or display an object, such as is described above inconnection with earlier embodiments 10, 80, 90, 120. A portion 153 ofthe top 152 of embodiment 150 is pulled away from the bottom 154. If theportion 153 is allowed to return to its closed position, the viewer seesthe top 152 of the apparatus 150 includes the information (not shown inFIG. 9B) that is typically included on the “front” of credit cards. Forexample, the top 152 of apparatus 150 may include the user's name,credit card number, expiration date, security holograph, etc.

The invention also may be embodied in an apparatus (not shown in FIGS.9A and 9B) that may include the functionality of a “contactless creditcard”. The apparatus may include a radio frequency identification chip(RFID), which can be scanned from a distance. The apparatus may exchangecredit card information with a reader via radio waves.

Advantageously, a user of the apparatus 150 has a device, whichfunctions more than just as a conventional credit card. The apparatus150 may be used to support/display objects in such a way as to allow theuser to operate hands-free.

Flash Drive Embodiment—FIG. 10

The invention may be used with or include a flash drive. FIG. 10provides five examples 160 a-e of an embodiment of the invention thatincludes the functionality of a flash drive. The term “flash drive” isused herein to also cover other types of devices that may be combinedwith the stand functionality of the invention, including, but notlimited to jump drive, USB flash drive, or Universal Serial Bus drive. Aflash drive is a data storage device that includes flash memory with anintegrated universal serial bus (USB) interface. A flash drive generallyis removable and rewritable.

Each of the examples 160 a-e is shown from its bottom perspective. Also,each of the examples 160 a-e includes a flash drive 162 a-e, either inan open position 162 a,e or in a closed position 162 b-d, as compared tothe remainder of the examples 162 a-e. The flash drives 162 a-e are usedin their open position.

Particularly, each of the examples 160 a-e is configured similarly toone of the embodiments 10, 80, 90, 120 described above. Thus, eachexample 160 a-e is generally credit card-sized and is generallyrectangular with rounded corners. Each example 160 a-e has two shortends, one of which serves as a base when the example 160 a-e is used andthe other short end is the top end. When used as a stand for an object,each example 160 a-e is stood on its base. A portion of the top (notseen in FIG. 10) of example 160 a-e is moved in an arc away from nearthe base to serve as the supporting part of the example 160 a-e (asdescribed previously in connection with embodiments 10, 80, 90, 120).

In the embodiment illustrated by examples 160 a-e, a flash drive 162 a-eis made to removably fit into each the examples 160 a-e from about thecenter of the base of the example. The flash drives 162 a-e in FIG. 10are all generally rectangular, but are relatively thin (slightly thinnerthan the thickness of the examples 160 a-e). To accommodate therectangular shape of the flash drive 162 a-e, a rectangular opening ofjust larger size is made in the base of each of the examples 160 a-e. Inthese examples 160 a-e, the rectangular openings have long sides thatare parallel to the long sides of the examples 160 a-e. The flash drives162 a-e may be snap fit into or otherwise retained in the interior ofthe examples 160 a-e. The flash drives 162 a-e may be withdrawn for usefrom their respective openings by a pulling motion by a user's finger(s)or thumb(s) or otherwise. The flash drives 162 a-e may be pulled all theway out of the respective examples 160 a-e so the flash drives 162 a-eare not in contact with the examples 160 a-e.

In an alternate example (not illustrated but comparable to examples 160a-e), two bars span vertically the base end of the rectangular openingfor the flash drive. The two parallel bars are above/below each otherwith space between. The two parallel bars are generally parallel withthe short sides of the alternate example. The two parallel bars arespaced apart from each other enough (in thickness) so that a flash drivemay be passed into the rectangular opening and between the bars. Theymay provide a guide for insertion of the flash drives.

Another alternative example (not illustrated) may include a feature tohalt the complete withdrawal of a flash drive. The feature may halt thewithdrawal of a flash drive when enough of the flash drive is removedfrom the example so the flash drive may be used for its intendedpurpose. An advantage of using such a feature to prevent completeseparation of the flash drive from the example is that the user may beless likely to lose or misplace the flash drive if it is still attachedto the example rather than separated from it. The combination of theexample with flash drive makes for a larger, less overlooked object thanjust the flash drive.

To accommodate the length of a flash-drive 162 a-e, an example 160 a-emay be configured differently from the embodiments 10, 80, 90, 120 interms of size of the respective top parts of the tops of the examples160 a-e. The top part or top portion is the part of the top of anexample 160 a-e that is “peeled away” or lifted from the bottom of theexample into a supportive position with respect to the bottom so as tosupport or display an object. The top part of an example 160 a-e may besmaller in length as compared to the other embodiments 10, 80, 90, 120if the examples 160 a-e are credit card sized. The top parts are smallerto accommodate the lengths of the respective flash-drives 162 a-e.Alternatively, the flash-drives 162 a-e may be positioned opposite thebases of the examples 160 a-e, i.e., in the top (the short end oppositethe base).

As another alternative, an embodiment of an example 160 a-e may beconfigured to be thick enough to accommodate a flash drive, but alsohave a top part that is as long as in the other embodiments 10, 80, 90,120 (or proportionally as long as them, if the alternative embodiment issized otherwise than as a credit card). In this alternative embodimentof an example 160 a-e, the opening for the flash drive may be a hollowedout portion of the example 160 a-e. In other words, the flash drive maybe completely housed inside the alternative example 160 a-e, when not inuse.

As yet another design change, the opening for the flash drive in theexample 160 a-e may allow for viewing one side of the flash drive butnot the other. The flash drive may be viewed from the bottom of thedesign-changed embodiment of the example 160 a-e, rather than from itstop. The top is complete without any opening, and allows for a supportportion in the top of whatever size without regard to the flash drive.

Further, in FIG. 10, the examples 160 a-e illustrate a featurepreviously discussed or possible with respect to embodiments 10, 80, 90,120 of the invention. The examples 160 a-e each bears the name of acompany. In other words, the examples 160 a-e each advertises a company.Thus, advantageously, the examples 160 a-e provide three-wayfunctionality: (1) as a stand for an object allowing a user hands-freeoperation; (2) a housing for a flash drive; and (3) a vehicle foradvertising. Other embodiments of the invention may combinefunctionality of one or more other features and characteristicsdiscussed herein in one or more of many ways.

Miscellaneous

The embodiments above have been described as supporting and/ordisplaying a single object. These same embodiments may support and/ordisplay more than one object based on the size of the embodiment and thesize of the objects. Other embodiments may be limited tosupporting/displaying only a single object or may be configured tosupport/display more than one object.

Color, patterns, ornamentation, texture, and the like may be used todistinguish parts of the invention from other parts. For example, thetop 16 of exemplary stand 10 may be a different color from the bottom 14of the stand 10. The difference in color may serve as an aid in openingthe stand 10. For instance, assume the stand 10 is all one color. Giventhe relative thinness of the stand 10, it may be somewhat more difficultto open if the top and bottom are not readily discernable from eachother. Different respective colors may allow a user to readily pull thetop from the bottom of the two-color stand.

Conclusion

The exemplary embodiments of the invention were chosen and describedabove in order to explain the principles of the invention and itspractical applications so as to enable others skilled in the art toutilize the inventions including various embodiments and variousmodifications as are suited to the particular uses contemplated. Theexamples provided herein are not intended as limitations of the presentinvention. For instance, many examples herein refer to use of theembodiments with a wireless device. Uses with other types of apparatus,devices, items, methods, and/or systems may be appropriate. Otherembodiments will suggest themselves to those skilled in the art.Therefore, the scope of the present invention is to be limited only bythe claims below.

That which is claimed is:
 1. A stand for a device, comprising: a generally rectangular bottom having an upper side; the bottom being substantially flat except for a stopper of a generally rectangular shape disposed along a shorter side of the upper side of the bottom; the stopper having a length substantially the same as the length of the shorter side of the bottom along which the stopper is disposed; the stopper having a width less than its length; the stopper having a thickness at least as thick as the combined thickness of the bottom and a top; a first piece of positioning material disposed on at least a part of the upper side of the bottom between the stopper and a line on the upper side of the bottom that is underneath and substantially parallel to a fold line on the top; the top being substantially rectangular and flat, sized substantially the same as the upper side of the bottom not covered by the stopper, and positioned on top of the upper side of the bottom not covered by the stopper when in a closed position for the top; the top having an upper side and an under side; a second piece of positioning material disposed at least on a part of the under side of the top between a short side of the top adjacent to the stopper and a line on the under side of the top underneath and substantially parallel to the fold line on the upper side of the top; the under side of the top being connected to the upper side of the bottom between the short side of the top opposite to its short side adjacent to the stopper and the line on the under side of the top underneath and substantially parallel to the fold line on the upper side of the top; the fold line being scored into the upper side of the top with the fold line being generally parallel to and between the short sides of the top so that at least a portion of the unconnected part of the top is selectively moveable away from its closed position atop the bottom to an open position, and so that the portion of the unconnected part of the top bends along the fold line to expose at least a part of the second piece of positioning material on the under side of the top when the top is in its open position, whereby the device may be positioned between the bottom and the unconnected top in its open position by having one part of the device placed on a portion of the first piece of positioning material on the upper side of the bottom, and by having another part of the device placed against a portion of the second piece of positioning material on the under side of the unconnected top in its open position.
 2. The stand of claim 1, wherein the stopper and the bottom are integrally formed.
 3. The stand of claim 1, wherein the top and the bottom with the stopper form a substantially flat rectangle when the top is in its closed position.
 4. The stand of claim 3, wherein the substantially flat rectangle formed by the top and the bottom with the stopper is about the size of a credit card.
 5. The stand of claim 1, further comprising a second fold line adjacent and parallel to the fold line and disposed further from the part of the top connected to the bottom so that the portion of the top bends along the fold line and the second fold line to expose at least a part of the second piece of positioning material on the under side of the top in its open position.
 6. The stand of claim 5, further comprising a third fold line adjacent and parallel to the fold line and disposed further from the part of the top connected to the bottom than the second fold line so that the portion of the top bends along the fold line, the second fold line, and the third fold line to expose at least a part of the second piece of positioning material on the under side of the top in its open position.
 7. The stand of claim 6, further comprising a fourth fold line adjacent and parallel to the fold line and disposed further from the part of the top connected to the bottom than the third fold line so that the portion of the top bends along the fold line, the second fold line, the third fold line, and the fourth fold line to expose at least a part of the second piece of positioning material on the under side of the top in its open position.
 8. An apparatus for supporting an object, comprising: a bottom having an upper side; a top lying on the upper side of the bottom; a first portion of the top being connected to the bottom; a second portion of the top being adjacent to the first portion of the top and not connected to the bottom; the second portion of the top having a flexible joint immediately next to the first portion of the top so that the second portion of the top may be lifted from lying on the upper side of the bottom to a selectively variable position having an angle of more than 0 degrees and less than 180 degrees with respect to the bottom; and whereby one part of the object may be placed on the bottom, but retained from sliding off the bottom, and another part of the object may be placed against the second portion of the top when the second portion is in the selectively variable position.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the bottom comprises a stop on its end closest to the second portion of the top such that the stop is configured to contact a portion of the object and prevent the object from sliding off the bottom.
 10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the flexible joint comprises a scored line in the second unconnected portion of the top on its upper side and near the first connected portion of the top.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the scored line allows the second unconnected portion of the top to bend near its connection to the first connected portion of the top.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the flexible joint comprises a second scored line in the second unconnected portion of the top on its upper side with the second scored line being adjacent and substantially parallel to the scored line.
 13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the bottom comprises a battery charger with plug for charging the object with energy if the object is chargeable.
 14. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a data storage device.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the data storage device comprises a universal serial bus (USB) flash drive.
 16. A device for holding a wireless device in an upright position, comprising: a base having a flap on top of the base; one part of the flap being connected to the base; the part of the flap unconnected to the base being selectively moveable to an open position away from the base by the unconnected part of the flap pivoting about the connected part of the flap so the unconnected part of the flap forms an angle of less than 180 degrees and more than 0 degrees with respect to the base; at least one score line in the top of the flap near and parallel to the connection of the flap to the base for creating a bend in the flap near its connection to the base; whereby placing a part of the wireless device on the base and leaning another part of the wireless device against the flap in its open position supports the wireless device in the upright position.
 17. The device of claim 16, further comprising a second score line in the top of the flap generally set apart from but parallel to the score line and further than the score line from the connection of the flap to the base for creating a bigger bend in the flap near its connection to the base.
 18. The device of claim 17, further comprising a third score line in the top of the flap generally set apart from but parallel to the second score line and further than the second score line from the connection of the flap to the base for creating an even bigger bend in the flap near its connection to the base.
 19. The device of claim 18, further comprising a fourth score line in the top of the flap generally set apart from but parallel to the third score line and further than the third score line from the connection of the flap to the base for creating a yet bigger bend in the flap near its connection to the base. 